THE Charity Ball is returning to Swindon for the 27th year and good causes in the town are being sought to reap its rewards.

The event, founded by the Rotary Club of Swindon, is being held at the Marriott hotel in Old Town on May 16 and has to date raised £670,000 for more than 50 charities, with donations ranging from £1,000 to £49,000.

Since its inception, the ball has received the support of local businesses and high-profile multinationals including Zurich, Nationwide and npower as well as Deacons the Jewellers, the Marriott and the Adver.

Last May the festivities, hosted by the Rotary Club of Swindon, the Adver and the Marriott Hotel, raised £22,953 for seven charities and projects.

Local good causes are being urged to put their cases forward in the hope of being awarded some of the funds raised at the event, either towards specific projects or much-needed equipment.

Tim Hanley, chairman of the charity ball committee, said: “It is the largest charity ball in the town and it is there to benefit anyone who needs it. That’s what makes it so special.

“We have realised nearly £700,000 over the years. And the evening itself is great fun. Every year we change the theme and the entertainment.

“We hope to have all the applications in by the middle of November so we can pick all the beneficiaries.”

Last year, the largest donation was made to Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool Association, which received £10,000 to help renovate the leaking roof in its changing rooms.

Asthma Relief was given £1,600 while Swindon Advocacy Movement was awarded £2,349 towards an internet cafe at its premises in Regent Circus for people with learning disabilities.

DASH, Discovering Autism Spectrum Happiness, received £3,500 to help pay for seating, equipment and materials for allotment space. The project supports adults with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s to use gardening skills.

Other beneficiaries included The Friends of TWIGS and Swindon Foodbank.

To download an application form to be considered as a beneficiary, or to sponsor the event, visit www.swindoncharityball. co.uk.